Oktoberfest to move to Mid-City in 2017

Deutsches Haus is building a new space on Moss Street

Wiener dog races, chicken dancing, German dishes and beers are among the highlights at Deutsches Haus' (www.deutscheshaus.org) annual Oktoberfest. The event has been held at Kenner's Rivertown for the past several years, since the German social and cultural organization had to move out of its longtime Mid-City home to make way for the University Medical Center.

Deutsches Haus is building a new complex at 1700 Moss St., near the Esplanade Avenue entrance to City Park, and announced on its website that it will hold Oktoberfest there in 2017. Festival dates will be Oct. 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21.

The festival spans three weekends and features music, activities and German fare. There are more than 16 German beers, seven wines and more than 20 schnapps. Traditional dishes include sauerbraten, schnitzel, bratwurst, pork loin, Bavarian-style pretzels and a selection of German cheeses.

Events include a beer stein-holding contest and a 5K run/walk. The Dachshund Dash is Oct. 21. For more information, visit www.oktoberfestnola.com. Admission is $8 and kids under 12 get in free.